WWF Travel Blog

However, demands from today’s global markets threaten diversity on the island of Madagascar. Deforestation, unsustainable agriculture and erosion fueled by human population growth all jeopardize the isolated island’s unique habitats. As a result, several charismatic species, including chameleons and lemurs, that evolved here over millions of years may become extinct before the end of the century.

WWF’s vision is to protect, restore and maintain Madagascar’s biodiversity in harmony with the culture and livelihoods of the local people.

• In 2005, WWF cofounded the Madagascar Foundation for Protected Areas and Biodiversity. The foundation supports efforts of national agencies and local communities against slash-and-burn agriculture and the illegal trade in plants and animals. The foundation is already widely recognized as a “model” foundation for Africa and an anchor for sustainable financing of Madagascar’s protected areas system.
   
• WWF is collaborating with the Malagasy government to triple the area of the country’s protected areas, including marine habitats. Creation of the new protected areas is done in close cooperation with local communities and is expected to generate additional economic benefits through initiatives such as ecotourism. WWF is placing special emphasis on the design of the new protected areas, linking small but critical sites to preserve rare species with limited range as well as conserving vast blocks of forest where migration corridors can be maintained.
   
• WWF and its partners run an Ecology Training Program to educate a new generation of scientists. Malagasy students learn about field survey techniques, conservation biology and taxonomy. Program graduates have made biological inventories, discovered new species and published scientific articles. The program has also developed partnerships with international institutions that provide additional opportunities for the professional and intellectual advancement of Malagasy scientists and students.
   
• WWF protects the simpona, one of the three most critically endangered lemurs in Madagascar. Because of its limited population size, restricted range and the ongoing dual human threats of hunting and deforestation, the wild population is estimated to be fewer than 1,000 individuals. Through a conservation awareness program, WWF educates communities near simpona habitat about the lemur’s importance. WWF is also developing zoning and management objectives, as well as habitat restoration activities. The project aims to produce benefits for local villagers through, for example, community events and clubs, school field trips and increased ecotourism.

Visit Wild Madagascar with WWF, June 23 – July 6, 2011.
 
 
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